A message from the chair

Thursday, Mar 26, 2020

Dear Students,

As we witness these unprecedented global events, I am reminded of the words that Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Peace Prize winner and educational rights activist, spoke to the United Nations on her sixteenth birthday, "Let us pick up our books and our pens, they are the most powerful weapons."

We face uncertainty, but I believe that the language and cultural skills you're learning now will soon be needed more than ever. This crisis emphasizes the need for positive international relations for our government and economic industries. At the same time, a lack of cultural sensitivity about the origins of COVID-19 has led to the marginalization of millions of people. As our healthcare system experiences unparalleled demand, the need for translation and interpreting services increases every day. These are only a few examples of how your skill set can fill a gap.

Your language proficiency and cultural understanding are invaluable tools to create change in the world, to build bridges, and to help others receive the compassion and care they deserve. 

Our move to online instruction in the middle of the semester is a difficult challenge that affects each instructor and student in unique ways. I want you to know that our department will do everything in our power to support you through this transition. 

If you have any questions during this time, feel free to email me at skania@uta.edu. Take care of yourselves. Stay healthy and safe. I hope to see you all again very soon. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Sonia Kania, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Modern Languages